Things To Do
in Qazvīn
Qazvīn sits at the foot of the Alborz mountains in northwestern Iran, blending centuries of Persian history with a vibrant urban life. It once served as a key hub along Silk Road routes, leaving behind mosques, caravanserais, and historic baths that whisper stories of the past. Today the city offers lively bazaars, welcoming cafes, and a gateway to rugged hillside landscapes just beyond the city center.
Visitors can easily explore its architectural highlights while using Qazvīn as a base for valley and mountain adventures nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Qazvīn Grand Mosque, a stunning example of Islamic architecture that showcases intricate tile work and majestic domes. Wander through the charming streets of the historic center, absorbing the rich history and culture that permeates every corner. Stop by a local bakery to enjoy fresh sangak bread, a traditional Persian flatbread, paired with honey or cheese for breakfast.
After lunch, visit the Qazvīn Castle, also known as the Alamut Castle, which overlooks the city and offers panoramic views. Explore the fascinating exhibits at the Qazvīn Museum of Islamic Arts, where you can see ancient manuscripts and artifacts that narrate the city's storied past. Take a leisurely stroll through the nearby bazaar, where you can shop for traditional handicrafts and sample local snacks.
As the sun sets, find a cozy café in the historic center to enjoy a cup of Persian tea while mingling with locals. Savor a delicious dinner at a traditional restaurant, where you can try local dishes such as Qazvīn kebabs or stews. Conclude your evening with a walk through the illuminated streets, soaking in the ambiance of this enchanting city.
Begin your day by heading to the bustling Qazvīn Bazaar, where the vibrant atmosphere will captivate your senses. Observe the local merchants as they sell everything from spices to handcrafted textiles, immersing yourself in the daily life of the city. Try some fresh fruit or sweets from a vendor to fuel your morning exploration.
After navigating the maze of the bazaar, enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling local delicacies such as kashk-e bademjan (eggplant dip). Spend your afternoon visiting the Khan School, an architectural masterpiece that serves as a reminder of the city's educational heritage. Don’t miss the stunning tile work and calligraphy that adorn the walls, showcasing the artistry of Persian culture.
As dusk approaches, head to a traditional teahouse for an authentic experience, sipping tea while listening to live music or poetry readings. Relish a leisurely dinner at an outdoor restaurant, surrounded by the sounds and sights of the city coming alive at night. End your day with a stroll along the nearby river, where you can reflect on the vibrant culture you've witnessed.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 in mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🏨1 night in mid-range hotel | $30-60 |
| 🚈Local transport one-way | $0.5-1.5 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and architecture
- Friendly locals and affordable prices
- Good base for exploring the Alborz region
- Vibrant bazaars with fresh produce
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Higher heat in summer
- Less English spoken outside tourist zones
- Public transportation can be sparse outside the city center
- "سلام" - Hello
- "مرسی" - Thank you
- "لطفاً" - Please
- "ببخشید" - Excuse me / Sorry
Places to Visit in Qazvīn
Visit one of these nice places.
A centuries-old mosque with intricate tilework, domes, and spacious courtyards—great for architectural and detail shots.
A traditional Qazvin villa with carved wooden facades, a shaded courtyard, and atmospheric lighting for portraits and ambient photography.
Colorful market corridors and vaulted arches—perfect for candid street photography and texture shots.
Scenic mountain vistas around the city, especially dramatic at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Qazvīn
Qazvīn Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty herb and legume soup with lentils, chickpeas, barley, and greens, typically enjoyed with bread.
Must-Try!
A saffron- and almond-scented brittle made with milk, sugar, and toasted wheat, often gifted as a pastry souvenir.
Grilled minced or marinated chicken skewers served with rice, tomatoes, and grilled vegetables.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A sprawling historic market offering spices, nuts, dried fruits, dairy, breads, and casual street bites.
Outdoor stalls with grilled kebabs, flatbreads, yogurt drinks, and fresh fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly in public; women may cover hair with a scarf at religious sites, and men and women should avoid tight clothing.
A polite 'Salam' is common; ask before photographing people and avoid physical contact with strangers of the opposite sex in public.
Safety
Tipping in Qazvīn
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (5-10%) for good service in cafes and restaurants is appreciated; guide and driver tips are common if you’re satisfied.
Cash is still the most widely accepted method (Iranian Rial or Tomans). Credit or debit cards are not universally accepted; ATMs are common in cities and larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures with blooming trees; ideal for city walking, markets, and short hikes.
Hot and dry days; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening and seek shade in courtyards and cafés.
Mild and comfortable; great for longer day trips to surrounding hills and valleys.
Cold with possible frost or light snow; pack warm layers and plan indoor sightseeing or warm cafés.
Qazvīn at Night
Hiking in Qazvīn
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic day hikes in the northern hills around Qazvin with views across valleys and the city.
Longer excursions to the Alamut region featuring dramatic canyons and historic sites; best with a local guide.
Airports
How to reach Qazvīn by plane.
Tehran’s main international gateway; about 140-160 km from Qazvin, accessible by highway and rail connections.
Tehran's older airport; primarily used for domestic flights, with limited international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Persian-speaking with Azerbaijani minority communities; cultural influences reflect in cuisine and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region; local clubs and matches are widely enjoyed by residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Qazvīn.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose herb stews, rice with herb mix, grilled vegetables, and breads; confirm stock and base broths are meat-free, and request dairy-based sauces if needed.